GARDENS OF THE MOON by Steven Erikson - No Spoiler Review (Malazan Book of the Fallen 1)

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 20 ส.ค. 2024
  • GARDENS OF THE MOON by Steven Erikson - No Spoiler Review (Malazan Book of the Fallen 1)
    #booktube #malazan #fantasy
    Gardens of the Moon by Steven Erikson begins my epic journey into the 10 book series Malazan Book of the Fallen. This is a no spoiler review for Gardens of the Moon by Steven Erikson. Gardens of the Moon has absolutely captivated my attention and brings a whole new level of interest to Malazan Book of the Fallen for me. Malazan and Gardens of the Moon have caught me by storm and I'll be making my way through the entire series now!
    I now have a Patreon that has some cool benefits, including access to my discord server! This is 100% optional and thank everyone for their support!
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ความคิดเห็น • 311

  • @billyalarie929
    @billyalarie929 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Frankly this review starts at 2:05

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Appreciate the time stamp haha

    • @billyalarie929
      @billyalarie929 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@thefantasynuttwork I honestly thought about it after I did this and worried I was being rude and accidentally suggesting you were wasting time (which, I don’t think that, to be clear, but sometimes you wanna get to the meat of it! Haha) but I’m glad this was appropriate :-)

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@billyalarie929 oh no problem at all, sometimes I go off on tangents hahah. It's appreciated

  • @ManCarryingThing
    @ManCarryingThing 3 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    saw the thumbnail and clicked faster than ever. so happy you're reading this!

  • @PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy
    @PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy 3 ปีที่แล้ว +36

    I’m glad you liked the quesadillas! It was fantastic to hear your thoughts. Anomander Rake is indeed a cool name, and I really enjoyed your thoughts on the characters. The connections really grew for me in the next couple books - I needed tissues for both Deadhouse Gates and Memories of Ice. One little (hopefully helpful) point is that Pale is actually in Genabackis - it’s north of Darujhistan. The world definitely opens up in the succeeding books. Excellent video! It would be a huge honor and pleasure for me to chat with you anytime on things Malazan, my friend. Cheers!

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      We will definitely be chatting soon friend! Damn I actually thought Pale was further away, I knew I'd get something wrong with this review hahaha.
      I see A LOT of potential for these characters and their ties together as the story grows on scope..this is going to be excellent!

  • @lilyloves768
    @lilyloves768 3 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    People think that Erikson can't write characters??? Wow 😐 This is my favorite series of all time. Hope you enjoy the journey.

  • @ACriticalDragon
    @ACriticalDragon 3 ปีที่แล้ว +28

    Fantastic. The dinner scene is one of my favourites from the book. I am really looking forward to hearing your thoughts on the rest of the series as you progress.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I've heard you are also a big fan of the dinner scene! I'd love to chat Malazan and fantasy with you sometime 🤘

  • @jakebishop7822
    @jakebishop7822 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    It's worth noting that I basically didn't read any glossary stuff while reading this book, or series and while i'm sure it lead to me missing things, I do not think checking the glossary is 100% necessary, for people who are willing to live with not understanding some stuff.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yeah fair, but you're like an AI compared to me so my dumb brain needs it hahaha

    • @jakebishop7822
      @jakebishop7822 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@thefantasynuttwork If there is one thing Malazan has proven, it is that my brain is not an AI

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@jakebishop7822 compared to mine** lol

    • @jenniferobin7260
      @jenniferobin7260 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I did the same Jake and I think that future rereads will be very enjoyable and interesting because of it.

    • @Catablepon01
      @Catablepon01 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Have to admit that it was only after book 5 that I realized that the glossary even existed

  • @thefantasynuttwork
    @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +51

    Kruppe likes this video and so should you.

    • @EricMcLuen
      @EricMcLuen 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Another member of team Kruppe.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@EricMcLuen how does one pronounce this name btw lol

    • @EricMcLuen
      @EricMcLuen 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@thefantasynuttwork I will always say it like croup, but is apparently kru-puh.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@EricMcLuen I kind of like making it sound pretentious and saying Croop-aye

    • @jenniferobin7260
      @jenniferobin7260 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I 🥰 Kruppe!

  • @pranavprabhu8609
    @pranavprabhu8609 3 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Magnanimous Kruppe approves of this video.

  • @BaldBookTuber
    @BaldBookTuber 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Kruppe rules, and I appreciate you properly acknowledging it.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I loved his parts and especially the reveal at the end. So much subtle foreshadowing for it and Kruppe was just hilarious as well

  • @coleton7048
    @coleton7048 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Between this video and the discussion Johanna had on her channel with Books With Brittany and The Reading Witch, I'm no longer intimidated by this book and just looking forward to seeing what all the fuss is about.

  • @jakebishop7822
    @jakebishop7822 3 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    Who were these people telling you Erikson was a crap character writer

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      There's a lot of them haha

    • @shulgi582
      @shulgi582 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      well, he *isn't* the best, mainly because he has a bijilion characters to work with, but he is far from crap lol.

  • @TheBookCure
    @TheBookCure 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    So glad to hear that you enjoyed this one, Jimmy. I think we look for a lot of the same things from our fantasy novels, so this gives me hope for my own experience with the series!

  • @shawnturpin197
    @shawnturpin197 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I started reading this series in January with the thought that I'd read a Malazan book then read some other books before moving onto the next book. Eff that, I'm reading this straight through until I finish the series. This is amazing. I love the confusion and lack of hand holding. The epic scale with the history and races extending back hundreds of thousands of years is something I haven't seen before and I love it. Wait until you get to books four and five and you'll get some extensive character development. I think the first quarter of book four may be the best part of the series and I just finished book six.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Wow that's some high praise. I've heard the books get better as they go on, which is great!

  • @JamesI88
    @JamesI88 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I said the same exact thing about how there are so many different fantastical elements thrown into this book but it feels real and grounded and never cheesy.

  • @alynam82
    @alynam82 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I enjoyed Gardens of the Moon, and I'm still relatively new to Fantasy. I've been a horror fan and I love historical fiction, so walking into Malazan, and GOTM, it really hit the mark for me. It has those horror elements, and even more so the fact that Erikson is an archeologist (or anthropologist?) gives those historical vibes. And those next few books also got some twisted, dark horror feels as well.
    I've only got up thru book 4 so far, but what makes GOTM different from them is that as a first book, it's a lot tighter in pace. A lot happens, and happens quickly.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      It's true, I definitely felt that history and horror stuff as well. Hoping the pace doesn't suffer too much because I was very happy with GOTM pacing lol

  • @benjaminmolina3456
    @benjaminmolina3456 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Anomander Rake is awesome! His sword is badass. Frankly, I loved how Malazan challenges the reader in a respectful way. In the dinner I was waiting for that confrontation. Erikson`s prose is just amazing.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm very much enjoying the trust Erikson has given me to figure things out

  • @maddy0119
    @maddy0119 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Excited to get this series sometime soon! This review and Riddhima's have really convinced me that this series is oversold on how hard it is to get into. Hoping I'll be able to jump on the hype train.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm glad you're thinking of jumping in..Ridd and I can always answer questions and such as you go too 😎

  • @thereadingstray7423
    @thereadingstray7423 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Kruppe is very pleased with this video!

  • @BooksWithBenghisKahn
    @BooksWithBenghisKahn 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Tremendous review! It was so cool to see your take on book 1-you’re in for such a treat with the next few books you have no idea!
    Erikson as a poor character writer is hooey, but no doubt some of his best character work I think is done within single books rather than across them. Can’t wait to see more of your Malazan vids and an eventual chat with AP Canavan!

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you so much! Had a lot of fun doing this one and am excited to make more videos and chat with some new friends about the series

  • @IskarJarak
    @IskarJarak 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Very cool, glad to see the series getting so much love and attention! Great video!!

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you Iskar!

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Would love to have you on for a discussion at some point 😁

    • @IskarJarak
      @IskarJarak 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@thefantasynuttwork Hit me up-I’m always down to chat Malazan!

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@IskarJarak hell yes!

  • @anotherpawn
    @anotherpawn 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    I'm on Blood and Bones now (book 5 of NotME) and I just wanna thank you for getting me into this series. I finished the main series last year and it's been such a great experience. Keep up the great work!

  • @warpgate_x
    @warpgate_x ปีที่แล้ว

    Best Malazan review on YT. Honest,enthusiastic and not pretentious at all. Great work bro!

  • @thatsci-firogue
    @thatsci-firogue หลายเดือนก่อน

    It's amazing just how much is just *there* on a re-read. Erikson truly is one of the goats of Modern Fantasy.

  • @berentook
    @berentook 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I have been scared to start Malazan for a while now but i think i might just take the plunge.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Jump in with me hahah

    • @cynthiaholmes5124
      @cynthiaholmes5124 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      It gets better with deadhouse gates gardens of the moon was a bit confusing but I did got into eventually 😉

  • @brettwaddingham3296
    @brettwaddingham3296 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I'm only a third through this video so far and you're saying all the things I like about fantasy, Jimmy. I think this will slot into my TBR as Sanderson writes books 6-10. Thanks for this overview!

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm glad you liked it, hope you enjoy the book 🤘

  • @mccrme
    @mccrme 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Erikson has some pretty grand literary ambitions. Nearly every sentence is dense with layers of meaning and themes. I love Malazan and the characters are great (I don't understand why anyone would say the characters aren't good) but it's not a casual read.

  • @barrilrayder
    @barrilrayder 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    So glad you liked it, Jimmy. Anomander Rake is dope in every possible way. I agree about the lore and worldbuilding, they are so massive, interesting and mysterious and what I really like is that learning about it never feels like a infodump, the exposition is always given in context and while we are with the characters. The Azath house stuff at the end was confusing for me too but it was so unique and different that I actually loved it. Anyway, I recently finished Memories of Ice and is sooooo goooood and I think you´re gonna love it too because you learn a little bit more (quite a bit) about the T´lan Imass. Thank you again and I dying to hear your thoughts on Deadhouse Gates.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks Barril! I'm here for any and all things about the T'lan Imass

  • @Kryten52
    @Kryten52 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I'm so glad I went ahead and started this series because of this video! I am about two-thirds into Gardens of the Moon and I gotta say I'm intrigued as hell. I truly love the unique voice of it and like you said, the confusion drives me more and more into it. The magic is wild as hell and the role of the gods and their meddlings hold a ton of weight over everything. Hell yeah.

  • @believer773
    @believer773 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi friend, you're right that some of us have been waiting for you to start this journey. From what I've seen of your videos you will definitely enjoy this on a different level than any other series. Just always remember that Malazan is a journey so pack your bags and go!

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      My bags are packed and I'm ready to go to the deep end 😁

  • @CounsellorofMoonsSpawn
    @CounsellorofMoonsSpawn 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great review! GotM is really only the tip of the iceberg.
    There are lots of tonal shifts actually, and different continents and locations are quite disctinct.
    Also, there can never be enough Anomander-love!

  • @patsmythos
    @patsmythos 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It was great hearing your thoughts -- your take on the confusion factor was great. I feel better knowing there are resources to help you through. Makes me confident I could give Malazan an honest try one day!

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      You definitely could, there's also some first law feeling to whiskey jacks crew IMO. the humor and such. Always here to answer any questions when you get around to reading it

  • @mich7008
    @mich7008 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I just finished the first book and I honestly wasn’t sure I was in the right frame of mind or had the capability to read this series. As I started I thought I might not finish it. But as I read the last words I had chills….. literally I had chills. I loved this book and am excited to press on. Great review and channel!!

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks for that Michael. One of things I wish I had talked about more in the review is how rewarding and epic it felt when all the plot strings came together at the end. Was really well done and made the confusion worth it

    • @mich7008
      @mich7008 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@thefantasynuttwork no question about that!! It was very satisfying!

  • @readingreignbro5680
    @readingreignbro5680 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Anomander IS a badass name and even cooler when you break it down(literally, just googled this, 😆) .............Ano = Time, Mander = to walk aimlessly. So, I interpret that as Wanderer of Ages, or Time Walker. And rake is a tool used to smooth or GATHER. What does his sword do? My mind is blown. Their are so many layers of meaning to everything in this series. Happy reading, friend.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes exactly! There's a lot to sink your teeth into!

  • @richardadcock5450
    @richardadcock5450 ปีที่แล้ว

    Your enthusiasm and the way you explained your experience makes me want to pick this up. I have been thinking about it. Heard a lot of mixed reviews.

  • @MoeWanders
    @MoeWanders หลายเดือนก่อน

    This is honestly one of the best reviews of Gardens of the Moon I've watched (and I've watched quite a few!) :)

  • @cap-tavating5862
    @cap-tavating5862 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    As someone on book 8 it only gets better. An amazing series

  • @stever8147
    @stever8147 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Awesome video Jimmy. Absolutely nailed it!!! Anomander Rake is such a cool character. 2 books into the series and he's definitely my favourite. I was put off starting this series with the whole talk of needing spreadsheets and a PhD to follow it, but that's not how I found it to be. I think you nailed it with where it sits on the scale and that will hopefully encourage others to give it a go. Great work as always!!

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thank you so much, I'm glad you felt I did a nice job. I was pumped to make this one!

  • @KH554
    @KH554 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Glad to watch your video!
    I am currently going through the series in audiobook form, and the narrator is fantastic.
    I was warned that Gardens of the Moon would be a bit less engaging as it was just helping us flesh out Erikson's world and characters. Many more loving and surprising characters to come!
    I found further books do much to help bring understanding to the magic used in the series.
    One thing I caught is that not everyone in the series knows about magic. Some people don't believe it exists. The convoluted telling of the story feels like how you would read a lot of the characters -- thrust into an alien world with no understanding of the beauty and horror.
    The physical descriptions done by Erikson helped me keep my feet during the climaxes in further books. Also helps us appreciate what a beast Calahm Mecal as he goes around rugby blocker assassin style.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The descriptions do go a long way for sure. Narrator is really good!

  • @nelzar
    @nelzar 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I didn't love Gardens because I didn't find myself caring for the characters, but I still plan to eventually give Deadhouse Gates a try.
    I think people overplay the confusion aspect of it. There are clearly some things here and there you aren't supposed to understand at the moment, but otherwise it was a fairly coherent and straightforward book.
    Great video, Jimmy.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thank you Nelzar!!

    • @cynthiaholmes5124
      @cynthiaholmes5124 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Deadhouse gates is so much better than gardens of the moon do far it's my favorite in the series already read memories of ice will continue with the series 👍🥰🙂🌟

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@cynthiaholmes5124 good to hear 😎

  • @edosaomoruyi1
    @edosaomoruyi1 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    LETS GOOOO! YOU KNOW WHAT TIME IT ISSS🐐🐐🐐

  • @kingofhearts642
    @kingofhearts642 ปีที่แล้ว

    My experience was so similar to yours. On top of the reputation the series as a whole has for being challenging to read and hard to follow, all I kept hearing about book one is that it's a "rough start", that you have to force yourself to "push through" so that you can get to the eventual payoffs later in the series. I had the same pre-conception about the characters too, I was not expecting to get attached to anyone, at least not so much in book one.
    But by the time I was even just a couple chapters in, I was having a blast. Like you said, the confusion isn't so much frustrating as it is intriguing, it made me want to dive deeper into this world and narrative. And I loved the characters! We aren't allowed to get as deep into their heads as some other writers will do, but like you I literally found the full cast of main characters so compelling and interesting.

  • @heretic124
    @heretic124 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Can't wait for your review of Memories of Ice. It's the book that sold me on this being the best fantasy epic ever. (I haven't read Stormlight yet)
    I love the challenge of reading this, of not everything being shoved down my throat and having to figure stuff out on my own. Regarding characterization, it's not a weak point. Books are written from perspective of characters and sometimes those characters have different knowledge about the same stuff. For me it even adds to the depth of the world. There are lies, there is misinformation. As in real life. And some characters may feel poorly written but it's not entirely true. Those people probably didn't finish the series or they're straight dumb.
    Once you're done with this go for Black Company series. It's what inspired Erikson and you'll see similar army atmosphere and humor there. It's just as grimdark if not more.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I'll likely try Black Company at some point for sure

  • @thatsci-firogue
    @thatsci-firogue 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I really liked GotM but Deadhouse Gates was when I fell in love with the series. I'm only on Midnight Tides (I'm caught up in a couple other books right now) but Malazan is already a Top 10, probably Top 5 favourite fantasy series of all-time for me.
    Am I often left in the dark? Yes
    But am I ever bored during a Malazan book? Hood's Breath, No!

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Hoods breath! Hahah, DHG has started our well, and very very grim haha

    • @thatsci-firogue
      @thatsci-firogue 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@thefantasynuttwork I know you hate in-world curse words (I kinda agree) but Hood's Breath is a good one lol
      Yeah DHG is pretty dark... the Seven Cities stuff is my favourite parts in the series so far

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@thatsci-firogue his in world swears sound great. It's all about the weight of a word you know?

    • @thatsci-firogue
      @thatsci-firogue 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@thefantasynuttwork yeah it's weird to hear "curse it" or whatever when an f-bomb will do

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@thatsci-firogue I think fake swear words need to have a sharp ending with weight like Hood has that but "storms" doesn't. Doesn't make an impact.. I could probably make a video all about this 😂

  • @romalohase9147
    @romalohase9147 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Nicely done!

  • @alejandrorubio305
    @alejandrorubio305 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great review, Jimmy

  • @blacknbluecollarreader
    @blacknbluecollarreader ปีที่แล้ว

    Excellent review!! I had a whole TBR list for 2023......but Amazon had to let me know there was a sale on all 10 books in this series. I was anxiously awaiting for the White Luck Warrior to be delivered and decided to pick up Gardens. Such a mistake!!!! My TBR List is ALL FREAKED UP NOW!!! lol

  • @yusuffulat6954
    @yusuffulat6954 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Anomander Rake is indeed a cool name :)

  • @charlesburge2564
    @charlesburge2564 ปีที่แล้ว

    From someone who is absolutely a spatial reader, the book’s descriptions of distance and height are so appreciated and it’s a huge plus for me to read it

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  ปีที่แล้ว

      Yeah it’s definitely a personal thing for me. Also it makes sense he would include them as he was an archaeologist

  • @samtrott776
    @samtrott776 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I’ve been looking for something to fill the whole that WOT left when I finished it so you’ve convinced me, I’ll take the dive!

  • @indyman_123
    @indyman_123 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for getting me to start the Malazan journey!

  • @fantasticphilosophy181
    @fantasticphilosophy181 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    For me, the moment we entered Darujistan through Kruppe, i knew i would love this series, loved him.
    Also, Raest is awesome! 🖤

  • @storytoob
    @storytoob 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Splendid review Jimbo! As a Latin person, I truly appreciated the quesadillas analogy.
    Muchas gracias,
    Carlito ❤

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Ayyyyy thanks man

    • @storytoob
      @storytoob 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@thefantasynuttwork going to make my way through some of this Malazan booktube content backlog. Figured I'd start here 😉

  • @EricMcLuen
    @EricMcLuen 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Mandy Pu is just completely over the top but beware the wiki.
    Nice shout out of that dinner scene. AP does an entire vid on it. There is a lot going on. It is a good example of how Erickson slips in a lot of exposition but seems completely natural.
    It is a balance between confusion, patience and curiosity.
    I am anticipating you will love a character in book 2 which will put you in agreement with Allen.
    And on the flip side, it is only 10 books compared to the 16 Hobbs. Which I am starting Liveship when done with Sword and Citadel.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm so excited to watch more AP, he's terrific. Also fair trade, I'll read Malazan and you do Hobb. We both win! Haha

    • @TheLibraryofAllenxandria
      @TheLibraryofAllenxandria 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Fingers crossed he loves that character.

  • @tmrogers87
    @tmrogers87 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Excited to start this story, looking for any recommendations to chapter-by-chapter podcasts. I am such a slow reader, and appreciate spoiler-free podcasts of that style to help me get oriented as I go on this journey!

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@tmrogers87 I’m not aware of any but check out Iskar Jaraks channel

    • @tmrogers87
      @tmrogers87 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@thefantasynuttwork love the interaction on a 2-years late comment!

  • @Onion42069
    @Onion42069 ปีที่แล้ว

    I’m 15 and this is the first fantasy book I’ve read 3 and a half chapters so far some of the other reviews say that this book is super confusing but I have found that I understand it very well and I’m really enjoying it

  • @DavidDecero
    @DavidDecero 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I need to pick this back up! I tried to keep up with a read along earlier this year, but quickly realized this is something I'll have to read at my own pace. I enjoyed the characters as well. With my limited exposure to the series it seemed like Erikson did a good job of quickly conveying the personality of each character. Which was probably challenging as there are so many. lol

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yeah they all have good personality, at least for me. You're so right too, your own pace is important with this series because of how different everyone's experience can be with it

  • @iremainteague5653
    @iremainteague5653 ปีที่แล้ว

    I think I will pick this book up. You've convinced me to give it a try.

  • @jaymorningstar244
    @jaymorningstar244 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    This series has become my most favorite I believe (still having feelings) over WoT. I believe listening to it read on Audible has made this more enjoyable for me though.
    It is a series (just finished Memories of Ice /cry) that makes me want to go back and listen again.

  • @jaket1501
    @jaket1501 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Yes, Anomander Rake == dopest fantasy name ever.

  • @brendanekin5947
    @brendanekin5947 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have 250 pages to go. It is confusing at times, but the characters are great! I am reading GoTM slowly and reflecting a lot, trying to puzzle it out. This is a very good sign to me.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm so glad you started it, if you ever need help or just wanna chat about it just hit me up in th discord. Gonna be a fun ride 🤘

    • @brendanekin5947
      @brendanekin5947 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@thefantasynuttwork Legend! Thanks. That file you sent me is really helping! Hope you're enjoying DHG!

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@brendanekin5947 glad to hear it and thanks man 🤘

  • @shanelindemanmusic2650
    @shanelindemanmusic2650 ปีที่แล้ว

    Good review, I'm really looking forward to reading this series.

  • @andrewstrongman305
    @andrewstrongman305 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Pale is in Genebakis, not far from Darujhistan. Deadhouse Gates is largely set in Seven Cities. I first read Gardens of the Moon not long after it was published. I couldn't understand a lot of what was going on, but I was hooked anyway. I wanted to experience more of the Malazan world, and the journey of discovery never really ends. I bought each book in the series as soon as they were available, and my copies of Deadhouse Gates, Memories of Ice, and House of Chains have fallen apart.

  • @jojothepirate87
    @jojothepirate87 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I finished the series about 4 years ago and I feel compelled to read it again.
    I'm trying to fight off the compulsion until I finish my current reading project.

  • @wormemperor4167
    @wormemperor4167 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Your review makes me want to pick up the book and see what all that Malazan fuzz is about :-D After First Law and the Expanse it will probably happen^^

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      A lot of great stuff to read 😬

    • @wormemperor4167
      @wormemperor4167 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@thefantasynuttwork Yeah the age old problem: So many books, so little time^^

  • @TheLibraryofAllenxandria
    @TheLibraryofAllenxandria 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great review, Jimmy, and super balanced! You have a lot of the same feelings as I have, while acknowledging that everything isn't perfect. I think he has some really good characters as well, but every single one isn't a mastercraft as is sometimes claimed. But I'm known for my hot Malazan takes, despite loving the series. I do not like Rake, for example. 😜
    Most everything becomes pretty easy to understand come book 3 and there's definitely setting diversity, though it's more of a jump in books rather than interbook. The military engagements though...that's some good stuff.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hey thanks man! Seeing how you enjoyed the series and what you got from it made me more comfortable with just reading the basic story of Malazan without having to delve too deep into a lot of themes and such, so thank you! I'll have to bring you on for some Malazan talk in the future 🤠

    • @TheLibraryofAllenxandria
      @TheLibraryofAllenxandria 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@thefantasynuttwork yes! I would love that!

  • @lewisshemery2585
    @lewisshemery2585 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Baric Dondarrion has to be my favorite fantasy name of all time

  • @Azwan1415
    @Azwan1415 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I read this many years ago and just didnt understand it. After seeing this review im going to give it another go.

  • @ladrac198
    @ladrac198 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'm on book 5 right now and it's just kept getting better!

  • @drawyrral
    @drawyrral 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love listening to first timers talk about Malazan.

  • @afantasybabble6222
    @afantasybabble6222 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    In my opinion, people really do a disservice to the series by making it so intimidating. Yes, it's confusing since you are thrown in the middle of things but you just have to go with it.
    Something that threw me off was the instant love that came out of nowhere. It just seemed out of left field and contrastred with the complexity of the book.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      You know that's actually true and I think I'm gonna bring that up during my spoiler talk I'm going to have, speaking of the insta love

    • @ShelfCentered
      @ShelfCentered 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Spot on! I like to show why those scary things are good

  • @DionysusSCII
    @DionysusSCII ปีที่แล้ว

    I never got too curious curious until the midnight tides storyline...but after that I couldnt help but steamroll through the end of Crippled God.

  • @crystalsingh7325
    @crystalsingh7325 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Yay! Hope you love this series. It's the best! 😀🤩

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I had no idea you were a big Malazan fan, this brings me joy!

  • @cacballs
    @cacballs 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    New Malazan content, woo!!

  • @noneofyourbusiness3288
    @noneofyourbusiness3288 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    5:45 I actually think not reading a wiki or guide is the way to go. If you dont get frustrated by a bit of mystery that is. The thing that makes Malazan so unique imo is how the main reading experience is getting random hits of dopamine dispersed over several books and rereads every time something "clicks". When you see how the different events are connected and you grasp the implications of a seemingly random action or metaphor on a second or third read. That is what Malazan is all about for me. Reading a wiki would ruin that.

  • @sw3dge
    @sw3dge 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Characters and Erikson's prose both blew me away in this one.

  • @demidrek-heyward
    @demidrek-heyward 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Any day now I'm expecting Jimmy to unveil his Brando Sando moment where he reveals he secretly has read 5 long epic fantasy series & already has recorded/edited hundreds of hours content, all without telling us. I'm ready!

  • @cynthiaholmes5124
    @cynthiaholmes5124 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I definitely read this book slowly because there was times that it was a little confusing I had an easier time with deadhouse gates and memories of ice going to read house of chains in August 🤔🙀😊

  • @kgrant67
    @kgrant67 ปีที่แล้ว

    @Billy Alarie who was the book reviewer you said was probably the biggest influence on you deciding to read this? Sounded like rhythma but couldn't find it. Thanks for a great review!

  • @MattonBooks
    @MattonBooks 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Yes, Anomander Rake is hands-down the baddest ass name.

  • @curtjarrell9710
    @curtjarrell9710 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I think a man my age (I'm retired) has no business picking up a 23 volume series of novels, many weighing in at 1,000 pages, and not lose his sanity. I hope all the fans love it. There's so much to read I'll be OK if I don't read it. Thanks as always for your review.

  • @MGWorldwide
    @MGWorldwide 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Pale is on Genabackis about 300 miles south so while 300.miles is 300 miles it's not like the North to Dorne in ASOIAF. 7 cities is rather Arrakis-like

  • @trill_nathan
    @trill_nathan 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    As you said, Erikson isn't weak at character writing. But despite my love for the series, the indirect characterization coupled with the large cast does make it difficult to latch on to them as much as my favorites in other series

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yeah I think this is a very true statement and will likely be the case for me as well. Like I really enjoyed them, but I won't be as attached as let's say a Fitz or Tyrion

  • @v3rmilli0nair3
    @v3rmilli0nair3 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Anyone who says Steven Erikson
    can't write characters has never actually ready Steven Erikson lol

  • @currangill430
    @currangill430 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Update: I just finished the prologue of Malazan, it's def better this time around. I think after I finish Shattered Sea I'm gonna start Malazan. I'm prepared for a 10 book epic!

    • @currangill430
      @currangill430 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      You and Phillip Chase convinced me to try again.

  • @noelnovels6511
    @noelnovels6511 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is making me want to pick up Deadhouse Gates like ASAP 😭
    What is your definition of a hard magic system? Because I said that it was, but that might be bc I have no clue what it really means. Lol. The magic confused me and it seemed like there were a lot of rules to it, butttt idk tho 😂🤷🏻‍♀️
    I also really enjoyed that dinner scene as well, but every time Tattersail was on the page I was absolutely loving it. Also agree that that bit at the end was anti- climatic!!
    #unapologeticallyteamkruppe lol
    P.s loving the new setup!!

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks Noel! And hard magic system is sort of loose to define but I judge it as it has a resource pool that we can count and track and has many rules in place for it. The best example would be Mistborn I think. Where as here Quick Ben can just open a Warren and we aren't sure why or how he's granted that power. Pretty sure there's no super set definition though hahah

    • @cynthiaholmes5124
      @cynthiaholmes5124 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      You definitely need to read deadhouse gates I absolutely enjoyed it and it wasn't as confusing as gardens 😉😇

  • @eduardobenassi3072
    @eduardobenassi3072 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'm a bit intimidated, ngl. read about 80 pages today (online). Not too hard on the dome so far. I had my dictionary at hand, sure, some words were _not there_ 😂ok. Anyhow, I dig his writing style, beautiful, it doesn't feel dense or boring. You can tell Erikson's got a brain on him. 10 books though, sheeesh... I'll probably get to it when I finish reading Sun Eater and a couple of standalone classics I've been putting off for a while.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Well as you read you can check out all my Malazan content and hopefully it works as a good companion to the series 😎

  • @derrisreaditbefore
    @derrisreaditbefore 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    luckily there are lots of different teas :)
    Happy you're enjoying another huge series, and between all of the booktubers who are reading Malazan this year, my vicarious experience is a good one :D

  • @IzzyZil20
    @IzzyZil20 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I got about halfway through the first book before I put it down. Sure it has epic scale and cool creatures but none of the characters were the least bit interesting and the plot often felt too disconnected (I know it reconnects later) I will eventually give this another try but I wasn’t impressed on my first read

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      It’s def not for everyone

    • @IzzyZil20
      @IzzyZil20 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@thefantasynuttwork I will come back to it because I want to at least say I’ve given the first two books a try. But I was super disappointed by it, the magic and world was cool but that was it.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@IzzyZil20 I’d just move on, too many books to read that you’ll like more!

  • @Avzigoyhbasilsikos
    @Avzigoyhbasilsikos ปีที่แล้ว

    That’s the second dopest name, after
    miles Teg and celebrimbor

  • @safinan8008
    @safinan8008 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Garden of the moon book was confusing..... but it was amazing it added eventually.. 😊😊😊

  • @jasonuerkvitz3756
    @jasonuerkvitz3756 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'll try reading it again. I thought the book was a stinker. Everyone loves it and I simply don't understand why. I suppose I was spoiled by some of the other things I'd read in the genre at that point and it paled in comparison.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  ปีที่แล้ว

      Different strokes for different folks is all. Not everyone loves it, but we who do really enjoy discussing the series. GOTM is the weakest entry of the series in some ways, so maybe the future ones would work for, but then again they may not. No big deal, cheers!

  • @asterrashter4637
    @asterrashter4637 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Lord anomander rake, is great but even his other names mane of chaos, son fo darkness is awesome.

  • @Benjamin-w41
    @Benjamin-w41 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    How would you rank all 10 books in Malazan Book of the Fallen?

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Hard to say tbh, I think my hot take about the series is that I loved all ten and never found a low point. Top 3 would probably be Bonehunters, TTH, and MT

    • @Benjamin-w41
      @Benjamin-w41 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Interesting!

  • @MrSnivs
    @MrSnivs 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Book of the Malazan is the best fantasy series you never feel good about recommending to other people.

  • @andrewlavigne44
    @andrewlavigne44 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Gardens of the Moon was honestly much better than I expected for all the warnings I heard about just starting at House of Chains (book 2.)

  • @incitatus4227
    @incitatus4227 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Could you elaborate on how being an advanced fantasy reader helps with this series? I only read Name of the Wind and the First Law trilogy so far, fantasy-wise, and I wanted to jump into Malazan. A lot of people say you it helps to have read other fantasy stuff before it, but I don't really understand what exactly is meant by that.

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Nah don’t worry about that, in fact I think looking back that less experience can benefit this series because you don’t have expectations of how the story should be structured or executed. Erikson approaches narrative and characters in a way that isn’t as prevalent in fantasy. I say dive in and have fun. Godspeed

    • @incitatus4227
      @incitatus4227 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@thefantasynuttwork Thanks so much for your opinion! I read the first 70 pages now and it's less confusing or esoteric than I thought, so that's nice. It's still fantasy, after all

  • @TheZrk2
    @TheZrk2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Jimmy, rewatch this review after you finish the series. You will see so many of your comments in a new light.

  • @aspirant7713
    @aspirant7713 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Where can I buy Trade paperback Version of Malazen Book of the fallen? in UK preferably. Plz anyone help!!!!

  • @currangill430
    @currangill430 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    From my understanding this is a world building focused series. Would someone who is a character driven reader appreciate this series?

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Malazan has some of my favorite characters, it's a totally different approach to characters but it's valid and for me effective

    • @currangill430
      @currangill430 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@thefantasynuttwork How does it compare to let's say ASOIAF or First Law?

    • @thefantasynuttwork
      @thefantasynuttwork  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@currangill430 it really doesn't, which is weird to say but it's completely it's on thing. Like when I want to read Malazan, there's nothing that can take that place. It's so unique and it's distinct

    • @currangill430
      @currangill430 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@thefantasynuttwork Okay that helps. People kept advertising it as a world building focused only world. So I avoided it causs that didn't sound like my jam at all. I'm a character reader lol.
      I love ASOIAF/FL for example for their Jaimes, Cersei, Tyrions, Glokta, etc. Yes they have history and a great world but I don't really read them for that.

  • @CurieBohr
    @CurieBohr 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Did you say, rhythm ma’s channel?